Car Makes – Page 870 – Automobiles Review

Gta Spano At The Madrid Supersportcars Exhibit

From November the 16^th till the 8^th of January a great event will take place. Yes, we are talking about the exhibit “Supersportscars, the best cars in the world”! More importantly here is that super car GTA Spano will be presented at this exhibition. After the great success it achieved last month at Top Marques Macau, which is one of the most luxury trade fairs worldwide, now the GTA Spano is ready to conquer Madrid. This event will be held in the IFEMA trade fair, where we can assure you you have the possibility to see of the best supersporcars of all times!

The exhibit will cover the huge area of more than 5,000 m² in order to host 45 supersportscars. The latter will be distributed according to countries – Spain, Italy, the UK, Germany, the USA and France). Of course GTA Spano will be the Spanish representative at IFEMA, along with Pegaso Z102. To make it more exciting, the event will offer activities such as F1 simulators, scalextric models and single-seater cars.

And to make a better difference in the world, a percentage of the amount of money collected at this trade fair will be given to the Theodora Fundation, which attempts to make childrens’ stays in hospital more human.

Source: GTA Motor

December 15, 2011

2013 Encore Crossover to Join Buick

Today is a big day for all Buick fans! If you wonder why and you still haven’t heard the news, well it is the confirmation of Buick of the introduction of the 2013 Encore. The debut of the all-new, five-passenger crossover will take place at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The vehicle named Encore joins the growing family of Buick, which has recently has expanded with the additions of the Verano compact luxury sedan, the Regal GS sport sedan, and fuel-efficient eAssist “light electrification” technology on both LaCrosse and Regal.

Concerning the details we have about the all-new 2013 Encore, there just a few shared. All we know for now is that the vehicle will offer contemporary styling, signature QuietTuning technology, and a lot of exciting features. If you want to have additional information, you will have to wait till the 10^th of January when Encore will be revealed.

And for the fans there will be little teaser every week. To be more precise for the interested, this week, a new Encore tab on www.facebook.com/buick will feature a covered photograph of the vehicle. Moreover each week leading up to the reveal, Buick will uncover a section of the photo. Eventually the final photograph will be revealed the same morning Encore takes the stage at the Cobo Center in Detroit.

Undeniably the expectations are great, because we are familiar with Buick, which is a modern luxury brand offering vehicles with sculpted designs, luxurious interiors with thoughtful personal technologies, along with responsive and efficient performance. Stay tuned at www.facebook.com/buick.

Souce: Buick

December 15, 2011

2012 Audi Q7 3.0 TDI S Line Plus – 204PS

Audi has made a strong move to take a large percent from the SUV market. The release of the new 2012 Q7 3.0 TDI S line Plus with 204PS is right on target. Usually the big SUVs suffer from high fuel consumption, but the new Q7 3.0 TDI boasts whopping 7.2 liters / 100 km (39mpg) on combined cycle.

The price of Q7 3.0 TDI equipped with 8-speed tiptronic gearbox starts at £39 995 OTR and the top of range S Line Plus is priced at £49 120.

The newly developed 3.0 TDI delivers 204PS (150 kW) at 3200RPM and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) at just 1250RPM. The performance is very good – 0 to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 204 km/h (127 mph). The results are thanks to revised camshafts, turbocharger and advanced common-rail system with an injection pressure of 2 000 bar.

The power is put on the road through Quattro AWD system channeling a 40% of the torque to the front and 60% to the rear wheels.

2012 Audi Q7 is available in four trim levels – Standard, SE, S line and the new S line Plus.

The S line Plus includes 21” alloy wheels, metallic paint, tinted privacy glass from the B-pillar rearwards, running boards and powered tailgate.

The interior boasts Verano leather upholstery, 7-seats, HDD-based SAT NAV system, Bluetooth phone preparation with online services giving access to Google Earth navigation mapping and creating a Wi-Fi hotspot for in-car internet access, Audi Music Interface iPod connection linked to an upgraded speaker system and the Audi Parking System Advanced with reversing camera.
Check out the price list, below!

The Audi Q7 3.0 TDI quattro 204PS – UK OTR pricing

3.0 TDI 204PS eight-speed tiptronic Standard	£39,995 OTR
3.0 TDI 204PS eight-speed tiptronic SE	£42,960 OTR
3.0 TDI 204PS eight-speed tiptronic S line	£44,620 OTR
3.0 TDI 204PS eight-speed tiptronic S line Plus	£49,120 OTR

Source: Audi

December 14, 2011

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

Mercedes-Benz has announced the new 2013 SL-class. The sports car features an all-aluminum bodyshell, which means more rigidity and less weight. Furthermore, the folding metal roof has a magnesium frame cutting more weight compared to the previous model. The new SL is even more comfortable and has more assistance systems on-board than its predecessor, sacrificing some of the weight saved through the aluminum bodyshell as a result.

The exterior of 2013 SL is entirely reworked and looks kind of … different. It features a ventilated hood and a single bar grille. The Bi-xenon headlamps come with active curve illumination and corner illuminating lamps as a standard feature. There is also an Adaptive Highbeam Assist. The striking sidelights and the horizontal line of the daytime running lamps in the far ends of the bumper feature LED technology. At the rear, the new SL features LED taillights and a dual exhaust system.

Aerodynamics – new standards

The design of the new SL is not only aesthetically beautiful, it also boasts outstanding aerodynamic characteristics, giving the roadster top marks in its segment in three crucial areas:

• the lowest wind noise, virtually on par with a closed sedan;
• the best comfort during open-air driving, meaning the roof can stay down evenat high speed;
• virtually no accumulation of dirt on the side windows.

The interior boasts finest leather upholstery, a choice of two wood trims and metallic accents. Perfectly in tune with the roadster’s character, the interior combines the unpretentious atmosphere of a high-performance sports car with the comfortable, stylish ambience you might expect from a luxurious touring car. The dashboard features round air vents and a new FrontBass audio system.

The engine range includes a 3.5 liter V6 with 306PS (225 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque, which grants 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and exceptional fuel consumption of just 6.8 liters per 100 km (41.5 mpg). The top-of-range SL500 has a twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 delivering 435PS (320 kW) and astonishing 699Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. From 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

The SL is the world’s safest roadster, thanks to the collision-optimized aluminum structure, standard equipment that includes PRE-SAFE® and ATTENTION ASSIST, plus further assistance systems on the same high level as the S-Class.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 14, 2011

2012 Ford Focus ST-R Race Car Price – $98 995

Here is a nice offer – 2012 Ford Focus for $98 995. Is it impossible to spend all that money to tune a 2012 Ford Focus ST? Actually, the answer is yes, you can. If you check the full specifications below, you’ll get the idea, why the new Ford Focus ST-R Race Car is so expensive.

The vehicle is specially developed to comply with FIA regulations and it will take place at the Grand-Am ST, World Challenge TC and Canadian Touring Car Series.

The Focus ST-R is currently available for order and deliveries are scheduled to begin late next year.

There is no performance data, but the 2.0 liter turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engine will deliver a serious amount of power. The factory power is 250PS (184 kW) and 360Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Ford Focus ST-R features a FIA-compliant roll cage, an LSD (limited slip differential), stripped interior with one Recaro front seat, racing steering wheel, racing instrument panel, start console and 18” BBS light alloy wheels fitted with Hoosier racing tires.

2012 Ford Focus ST-R Race Car - Front Angle

2012 Ford Focus ST-R Race Car

Powertrain

Ford Racing custom exhaust
Ford Racing engine calibration
Ford Racing high capacity radiator
Ford Racing clutch
Ford Racing oil to air oil cooler
Remote oil filter
6-speed manual transmission with Ford Racing limited-slip differential

Chassis

Seam-welded steel unibody with integrated FIA certified safety cage.
Structural perofrmance: over 20,000 lb.-ft/degree (torsional)

Front Suspension

AST performance coilover adjustable dampers
Adjustable camber plates
Ford Racing upgraded sway bar with adjustable end links
Upgraded bushings

Rear Suspension

AST performance adjustable dampers
Control-blade multilink rear suspension
Ford Racing upgraded sway bars with adjustable end links
Upgraded bushings

Brakes

Front brakes 320 mm with 2-piece rotors and race pads
Production rear brakes with race pads
Ford ABS with unique Ford Racing calibration

Wheels & Tires

18″ BBS CF 1 piece cast alloy wheel (Anthracite)
Hoosier 225/40-18 R6 race tires

Fuel System

ATL 18 gallon fuel cell with custom single dry break system

Exterior

2012 Focus ST body kit
Brake cooling ducts
Hood pins

Interior

Ford Racing lightweight wiring harnesses
Recaro Pro Racer HANS racing Seat
AIM MXL Pista GPS based data system
Ford Racing short throw shifter
Ford Racing fire suppression system
Ford Racing 6-point safety harness
Ford Racing driver safety nets
Ford Racing steering wheel with quick release
Custom carbon fiber center panel with switches

Source: Ford via Car & Driver

December 14, 2011

STARTECH Adds Caviar To An Already Seasoned Meal

STARTECH, which is a subsidiary to BRABUS (and we all know them), have been toying with the new Jaguar XJ and the results are rather sublime and tasteful.

The makeover is mainly cosmetic which includes a finely designed aerodynamic kit, bulky 21 inched forged rims and a custom made interior.

The XJ is already striking enough as it is, with that sloping, gentle roof line which seems as if it is blending with the taillights. So STARTECH has decided that it only needs a few alterations for the ultimate aesthetic nirvana. Now at the very end of the trunk, an elegant lip spoiler can be seen. All aerodynamic-enhancement components are manufactured in OEM quality.

The front of the car for example receives a minor addition (not a replacement) for the bumper. It is an curvy, meshed apron which reduces air-lift and with its constantly luminous LEDs one can say that improves day to day safety. The fenders are audaciously garnished with strikingly big air outlets on which one can spot the STARTECH logos (the first solid proof of the company’s involvement). At the opposite end of the side sills small elegant details, just before the rear wheel arches, finish the sporty look that has been started by the outlets. In turn the back end is garnished with a new fascia which houses a diffuser and two integrated panels with a typical STARTECH design. There can also be found the stainless-steel, company provided, rear mufflers.

2012 STARTECH Jaguar XJ — STARTECH Jaguar XJ (2011)

Since there is a lot of space under the wheel arches, STARTECH has gone the extra mile by fitting their Monostar J Diamond Edition wheels – three-piece forged monstrosities which come in sizes 9.0Jx21 and 10.5Jx21. They bare a mirror-polish shine with patches of titanium-look which complete the overall exterior of the Jag. Because of their lightness and durability and the extra wide tires on them (255/35 ZR 21 at the front and 295/30 ZR 21 at the back), they offer greater stability and control.

STARTECH also excels in different Alcantra and leather design. In this case, because of the XJ’s black exterior, they have gone for the cream-colored interior made from the soft and breathable Mastik type of leather.

The two independent seats at the back are electrically heated and the legroom in front of them is bathed in light which comes from the sides of the elegant, compartment riddled, center console.

More than 5 000 meters of thread has gone for the stitching of the seams on the dashboard, the leather flooring and the seat upholstery design. Great effort has been made by the STARTECH refinement team when it comes to the elaborate wood trim for the interior – Black, glossy polished piano wood was meticulously adorned by hand with ship-veneer-type inlays.

It is not all 19^th century appeal though. Inside there is an integrated Apple iPad docking station with a bluetooth keyboard for it. Internet is not a problem as well – A 20 MBit/s GSM modem provides a high-speed internet connection via EDGE, HSDPA or HSPA+ protocols. Several passengers can communicate online at any time using a WLAN network available in and around the car. This car is more of a command center than it is a vehicle – in times of war I think I’ll give STARTECH a call.

Source: STARTECH

December 14, 2011

Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in and C-MAX Hybrid to Freshen Up the Market

Ford has announced that two new, super economy MAVs (Multi Activity Vehicles) are set to go on sale during the second half of 2012: So welcome to the C-MAX Energi (spelled correctly) plug-in hybrid and the C-MAX Hybrid. They are both expected to trash their counterparts in terms of economy – The Toyota Prius plug in hybrid and the Toyota Prius v respectively

It is not so much of a surprise that this is the next phase of the company’s plan to target more fuel-efficiency-minded customers. Here is what Amy Machesney, the C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi Marketing manager had to say:

“The C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi are designed to meet the needs of customers looking to ‘plus-up’ and optimize their hybrid car experience. These customers are living more environmentally responsible lives and may have bought a hybrid in the past. They are now ready for more hybrid choice, combined with style, better performance and additional versatility.”

See, Ford’s goal for 2012 is to have a third of it’s whole lineup to consist of 40 mpg and above capable vehicles. For that to happen they need to triple production capacity of its electrified vehicle range. In North America, the C-MAX Energi and Hybrid will be only two out of five scheduled electrified debuts.

With many years of experience behind, Ford is not banging rocks together here. They have around 500 patents all relating to hybrid technology and hundreds more waiting in line. They have an abundant stock of data gathered from their Ford Espace plug-in hybrid test fleet. The software and hardware which represent the C-MAX nervous system has had more than 20 years of research and innovation. Everything is done in-house to ensure a perfect, synchronized efficiency system. And now the vessels of that technology are the C-MAX platforms which have been a major success on the European market since their launch in 2010 with over 100 000 units sold. Even the place where they will be making them is a high-tech utopia – Ford’s assembly plant in Wayne, Michigan which is partially powered by the state’s larges solar system.

The C-MAX Hybrid should hit better urban and extra urban mpg than its equivalent, the Toyota Prius v. while the C-MAX Plug-in hybrid will have a driving range of more than 500 miles, more than the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid or Chevrolet Volt. And it is also claimed that the driving experience will remain exciting.

“With C-MAX, you get road-holding capability, sportiness and performance in addition to leading fuel economy, great versatility, great features and great technology in a package designed to exceed customer expectations.” says John Davis, C-MAX chief nameplate engineer. If all that turns out to be true, no doubt that Ford will skyrocket to the leading position of the fuel economy race.

So what wizardry will they employ to achieve this? As expected from hybrids, the power for both of the C-MAX MAVs comes from a combination of a petrol engine and an electric motor. The gasoline unit is an already efficient yet powerful 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine. It is one of Ford’s cleverest naturally aspirated engines ever. The electric motor is powered by lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery packs which can be up to 50 percent lighter and 30 percent smaller than the nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) ones used in previous generation hybrids.

The C-MAX hybrids utilize Ford’s next generation powersplit system which allows the engine and the motor to work separately or at the same time. Alternatively, the petrol unit can be left to idle independently in order to charge the driving electric motor. Under proper conditions (light load, low speeds), the electric motor alone will be capable to bring power to the wheels.

The C-MAX Hybrid’s battery pack can be recharged while the engine is running and while braking. 95% of the energy, that is usually wasted upon braking, is now channeled towards the battery and hence the difference between the Hybrid and the Energi plug-in. The Energi needs charging in a standard 120-volt outlet or at a 240-volt charging station.

All that technology needs to be converted in figures for the driver to see. This is where gadgets like SYNC® and MyFord Touch® com into place. It is a complex interface system that allows the smooth and efficient operation of things such as climate control, navigation, the entertainment system. It is all very accessible too as the driver can manage all that with voice commands as well as controls on the steering wheel and touch screens and buttons and knobs etc. To further inform abut the mode of driving and economy there is the thing called SmartGauge® which employes EcoGuide – a thingamajig on the dashboard that offers instant fuel economy while there are also indications about average economy. Efficient braking advisory system called Brake Coach helps you optimize the use of the regenerative units by braking as efficiently as possible. In the C-MAX Energi you can even utilize your smartphone or your computer which will then tell you all kinds of information about the remaining charge and distance so you never run out of juice prematurely. Then there’s the standard stuff like active park assist, start button and AM/FM/CD/MP3 Sony® Audio, HD Radio™.

The appeal grows even more as we keep mind that the C-MAXes are practical as well. We get loads of space inside (slightly less in the C-MAX Energi), an overall height of 64 inches for each vehicle so that good for headroom, and seating for five including the split, fold-flat second-row seat. Access to the cargo area is made easy because of an innovative hands-free liftgate. All you need is a key fob to be somewhere near the car (ideally your pocket) so that the cars knows it is okay to open and than a gentle kick under the rear bumper will trigger the door.

Let us not forget to mention that safety has also been addressed with numerous features that come as standard. Seven airbags and a direct line with 911 emergency services vie the SYNC 911 Assist™

program can be very handy in an accident. Should you lend your car to your rebellious teenage kid but worry about speeding. Well worry no more because the MyKey® system allows parents to set a speed limit and restrict radio stations with explicit content. There is also a constant nag system that can tell if someone in the car is not wearing a seat belt. What comes as standard also are the Curve Control, that is designed to slow the vehicle when it’s cornering too fast, the Torque Vectoring Control, which helps accelerate through a turn when necessary. AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ (RSC) and electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) are also included.

Source: Ford

December 14, 2011

Canada to Get Electrified by Nissan

Nissan Canada has announced that now it will be possible for the Canadian people to pre-order the 2012 Nissan LEAF MY12 online. Earlier on only the registered at www.nissan.ca/leaf had the privilege to do so. However reservations are now open to all Canadians who live within the vicinity (65 km) of a certified Nissan LEAF dealer. There are 27 dealers across Canada so quite a few people will have the chance to snatch one.

The first shipment of 40 MY11 LEAFs was ravaged within minutes last summer and the trend has remained as the following 350 units of MY12 LEAFs being reserved this fall. And now numbers are sure to go up as even more people will have the opportunity to order those all-electric rascals .

Here’s what Judy Wheeler, Director of Marketing, Nissan Canada had to say:

“The feedback we’ve received from Nissan LEAF owners in Canada has been incredible with many sharing their journey and experience through social media.” She continues: “As more people live with and share their experience of all-electric mobility, particularly with the Nissan LEAF, more and more Canadians will consider this as an exciting option for their next vehicle. Opening reservations to the broader public is an important step in the roll-out of the car in Canada.”

As of the end of November over 110 Nissan LEAFs have been delivered to customers in Canada and globally, over 20,000 Nissan LEAFs have been sold. Their price starts at $38,395 but buyers will be eligible for tax return which varies depending on their area: $8,500 in Ontario, $8,000 in Quebec and $5,000 in British Columbia

This is how to make a reservation online:

On December 12th online reservations opened to those living within the vicinity of a Nissan LEAF certified dealer at leaf.nissan.ca.
A $99 reservation fee (fully refundable) is required to secure a reservation.
After booking a home-charging assessment, customers will receive an invitation to order a Nissan LEAF.
Customers request a quote from a local Nissan LEAF-certified dealer and will continue through the sales process until they drive away in their own Nissan LEAF.

Source: Nissan

December 14, 2011

Cobra Technology & Lifestyle Goodies For Your VW Amarok

Ever felt that your VW Amarok is not practical enough nor it is as impressive as you want it to be. Or maybe you are simply gearing up for a safari. Either way you shouldn’t panic because Cobra Technology & Lifestyle are here to offer you a neat array of accessories which will give your pickup truck that extra something to complete the picture.

Let us start with the Aeroklas camper shell which is manufactured from high-grade ABS plastics. It is a perfect fit for the bed of the Amarok (it also comes with a certificate that makes individual technical inspections redundant) and basically what it does is to fend off the elements from the things you value the most. It is also very practical – easy to install, upward swing glass at the back for easy access, roof rails and a spoiler. The shell is leveled with the cabin to prevent any wind noises and provide maximum loading capacity. Usually these rigid tops come in silver or black but other colors are also available upon request.

Additionally, now you can install a Cobra Technology & Lifestyle stainless-steel front tube guard with a thickness diameter of 60 milometers. Because it has its own crumple zones all crash tests have resulted in a 100% positive green light (it too has a certificate of approval).

On the other hand you can go with the more subtle option of the Cobra CITYGUARD® which is a single stainless-steel tube that runs along the standard front bumper. This will give you just about enough character on the streets and you wont be afraid of minor collisions anymore.

The Cobra Technology & Lifestyle stainless-steel bumper grille complements whichever guard you might choose.

There is some protection for the sides as well. The rocker panels can be suited with special, company tailored rocker panel guards 80 millimeters thick each. Quite thoughtfully these guards come with steps right beneath the place where the doors should be for easy access. Alternatively, you might prefer the aluminum or stainless steel running boards option.

When the camper shell is not in use, it would be nice to have some sort of a roll bar to protect the cabin should the truck ends up upside down. From Cobra, the engineers have thought about that as well – Tubes with 60 millimeters of diameter lends the German pickup not only more attractive looks but also offers additional options for securing cargo.

For an all round complete feel one must consider placing massive light-alloy wheels. Cobra offers two types of alloys coming in three sizes the biggest of which is the one-piece, eight double-spoked COBRA N+ Sahara 10Jx20 with size 275/45 R 20 tires (TÜV tested)

Cobra Technology & Lifestyle are ready to offer you 2 full years of guarantee with no limit on the distance traveled. Now that is dedication!

Source: Cobra Technology

December 14, 2011

2013 SRT VIPER to be built in Chrysler Group’s Conner Avenue Assembly Plant

More news from Chrysler Group LLC is coming today. Chrysler has announced that it will reopen its Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit for the production of the next generation SRT Viper. The Conner facility was vacant since the end of the production of the Dodge Viper in July 2010. The good news is that from Chrysler has also confirmed that in the late 2012 a next generation Viper will return on the market as a 2013 model. To be more precise Conner Avenue will begin the manufacturing of the new Viper in late 2012. Of course Current Chrysler Group will employ firstly the people who previously worked at Conner. And the balance of the positions will be filled by hourly employees volunteering to transfer to the Conner Avenue plant. The aim of the facility is to implement a World Class Manufacturing (WCM). This is a system that is focused on reducing waste and making continuous improvements throughout the assembly process to improve quality and productivity.

To go back in history, Viper production began at first in May 1992 at the New Mack Assembly Plant. Then in October 1995 it moved to the Conner Avenue site. What is interesting here is that all Vipers that rolled off the line were hand-built in a low-volume, modular process. Over the range of 15 years, Conner Avenue employees built about 12 vehicles a day for a total of 22,070 Vipers. On the other hand, the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant was built back in the distant 1966 and purchased by Chrysler in 1995. The production of Prowler began in May 1997 and finished in February 2002. Another interesting detail about the factory is that the Viper V-10 engine production was transferred from Mound Road Engine to Conner Assembly in May 2001. Next comes the year 2003, in which the newly engineered SRT10 Roadster hit the market. In 2005 the production of SRT10 Coupe followed. With a production run of 28,056, the Viper production ended on 2d of July 2010 and as an effect the facility was idled.

Chrysler Group LLC was formed in 2009 with the aim to establish a global strategic alliance with Fiat S.p.A. It produces Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Mopar, SRT and Fiat vehicles and products. In addition with the resources, technology and world-wide distribution network they reach a global scale, using Chrysler Group’s aim for constant innovation. Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., Chrysler Group’s product lineup features some of the world’s most recognizable vehicles, such as Chrysler 300 and Town & Country, Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Durango, Ram 1500, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 and Fiat 500. On the other hand Fiat contributes with a world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-size cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including eco-friendly vehicles.

Source: Chrysler

December 14, 2011

2013 Dodge Dart Interior

The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart Interior will undeniably set a brand new high level standard for compact cars. First of all it is a modern blend of precision craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technology and Safety. Secondly it amazes with exciting bursts of color and hand-sculpted shapes. And at last all mentioned above will allow the highly customizable interior to become reality. Here we can have a sneak peak into the high-tech, precisely crafted and highly customizable interior of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart. The vehicle is scheduled to be introduced on 9^th of January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

To keep the interest high enough Dodge designers focused on what is modern nowadays. For example the interior was made with materials and technology typically found in more expensive vehicle segments. Starting with modern Dodge DNA and through the use of innovative ambient interior lighting, high-quality soft-touch materials and high-tech features, the 2013 Dodge Dart is going to provide lot of pleasure and delight for both drivers and passengers. For instance the Dart’s “driver-centric” layout is made to put all controls within easy reach of the driver. Furthermore there are a customizable displays and comfort-tuned seats, which are packaged in a spacious interior.

The key to this development was the customization in the all-new Dodge Dart. It is being offered with 12 exterior colors, 14 interior color and trim combinations, six wheel options, three engine options and three transmissions. The good news is that each Dodge Dart can be personalized by every client, in order to match their individuality.

Moreover a class-leading has being used in the all-new Dodge-Dart. The high-tech centerpiece of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is the class-exclusive floating island bezel, which houses the segment-exclusive available 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) customizable gauge cluster display with light pipe surround that also houses the available class-exclusive UConnect Touch 8.4-inch touchscreen multimedia center. In addition the glove box easily conceals a stowed iPad. In the center console there are as a feature auxiliary jacks to plug in a wide variety of electronic devices, and thoughtful, inventive storage solutions, such as console map pockets, which are perfect for storing mobile phones, receipts, or pen and paper. Further optimizations are the ambient lighting for the door handles, map pockets, foot wells, glove box, storage bin and illuminated cup holders. They are definitely useful, and moreover they also provide a good warm atmosphere inside the vehicle.

At last the security and safety of the car is unmatched in its class. The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart was built on a strong foundation: in the construction is included 68 percent high-strength steel. Moreover engineers have added both active and passive safety features such as 10 standard airbag, blind spot monitoring and rear cross path detection.

Source: Chrysler

December 14, 2011

2012 Gas-Free Ford Focus Electric

Another huge manufacturer to go “green” is no surprise – FORD. The all-new, gasoline-free Ford Focus Electric is the first Ford model which is all-electric passenger car with zero-CO₂-emissions. This version of Ford’s popular small car has the ability to achieve the equivalent of 100 miles per gallon fuel efficiency rating with seating for five persons. In addition the vehicle is also a pioneer in the class of all-electric cars which is going to feature a faster charging technology, allowing it to fully recharge in three to four hours. In comparison the Nissan Leaf charges for a double time! Hence, this technology can help double the car’s range during a busy day of driving and recharging numerous times. Another advantage of the above mentioned improvement is that it can help clients save money! A benefit to be seriously considered, isn’t it?

For the 2012 Ford Focus Electric orders have already being taken. They have started in November through Certified Electric Vehicle Dealers in California and New York/New Jersey markets. But don’t worry if you want to purchase it, because in the forthcoming 2012 the availability of the vehicle will expand to another 15 markets.

Ford had put 20 years of research of the innovations in electrified cars, some of which can be seen in the presented one. The aim of the manufacturers however, is to bring the customers fuel-efficient vehicles without sacrificing performance, capability or dynamic driving experience. Moreover Ford Focus Electric is expected to be competitive with other comparable all-electric vehicles.

First to be highlighted here is Focus Electric’s advanced lithium-ion (li-ion) battery system with an advanced active liquid cooling and heating system to precondition and regulate the temperature in its larger, more complex battery system. To be more precise the active liquid system heats or chills a coolant before pumping it through the battery cooling system. What this loop does is to regulate the temperature throughout the system against the external conditions. For instance on hot days, chilled liquid absorbs heat from the batteries, dispersing it through a radiator before pumping it through the chiller again. On the other hand, on cold days, heated liquid warms the batteries, gradually bringing the system’s temperature number, which allows it to efficiently accept charge energy and provide enough discharge power for the car’s performance. Another innovation that is to be mentioned is the endurance and the long life of the batteries. Interesting is that exactly around this feature Ford has made numerous tests and developments since 1980s. Up to nowadays, among the nearly 43 million battery cells Ford has tested or seen put to work in customer vehicles, only five issues have been documented.

To keep up with the trend, which is to go green and be more fuel efficient, Ford has developed Focus Electric. Moreover it has a unique option “set it and forget it”, which concerns the value charging and is powered by Microsoft. What it does is to notify owners to charge their cars when the utility rates are lower. The goal here is to help customers avoid unnecessary expenses by providing an improved charging solution. The highlight here is that Ford Focus Electric is the first all-electric vehicle which offers a faster charging technology, allowing a full recharge in three to four hours with the 240-volt charge station! Next innovation that has been included in the vehicle is a result of the collaboration between Ford and SunPower Corp. They offer customers a rooftop solar system that can provide enough clean, renewable energy to offset the electricity used to charge the car. No doubt that this brand new technology is going to be very appealing to all concerned about the environment! Furthermore the car’s charge port, which is located on the left front fender, activates a light ring that illuminates the port twice when plugged in. Then the light ring illuminates in quadrants as the car charges, where each quadrant represents 25 percent of the maximum battery charge. You can plug off the car when the entire ring is solidly lit, then the car is fully charged and ready to be driven.

Another benefit comes from Focus Electric’s SYNC^®with MyFord Touch^® driver connect technology, which was specifically developed for electric car owners and shows important information. Next, the system’s MyView feature allows the accessibility of more vehicle data. Drivers can also enter destinations, including their next charge point, into the car’s MyFord Touch map-based navigation system. In this way the car will instruct drivers on the perfect way to access the desired range, or will give an advice if travel plans need to be changed. Furthermore the on-board navigation system provides an EcoRoute option based on characteristics of efficient electric vehicle driving. Going further into the innovations, we have to mention the Focus Electric’s next-generation SmartGauge^® with EcoGuide fuel economy coaching system. It features a cluster display that uses blue butterflies to represent the surplus range beyond the driver’s charge point destination. For example, the more butterflies there are, the more surplus you have to get to your final destination. An easy and fun way to be reminded, isn’t it? And at the end of each trip, a display screen provides the distance driven, miles gained through regenerative braking, energy consumed and a comparative gasoline savings.

As every up-to-date car, Ford Focus Electric has a remote control with which the owners will have constant contact with the car anywhere they have a mobile phone signal. This is going to be possible through the use Ford-developed MyFord^® Mobile application, which enables access via a smartphone or Web-based interface. For example, with this feature you can receive instant vehicle status information or perform key functions remotely, monitor the car’s state of charge and current range or get alerts when the car requires charging or has finished charging. You can even locate charge stations and plan routes to find them! Furthermore the feature also allows the owner to program the car to use electricity from the grid to heat or cool the cabin while plugged in. As an instance, during hot days, the car can be programmed the evening before to be fully charged and fully cooled to a particular temperature by a specific time the next morning. Using the MapQuest^®, MyFord Mobile can access charge station information and other points of interest to Focus Electric.

And if you wonder about the driving experience here are some details you need to know. First of all, the all-electric powertrain and single-speed transmission provide immediate responsiveness and smooth acceleration. The maximum speed you can achieve is 84 mph (136 kmh). Furthermore the steering, handling and braking feel is shared with the agile, sporty, fuel-powered five-door hatchback Focus model upon which it’s based. Having all this in mind and along with it, the vehicle’s absence of gasoline or diesel engine and its outstanding aerodynamics result to a quiet, comfortable driving experience. Ford of course have thought about the safety, and has featured in the vehicle six airbags, electronic traction control and MyKey^®for North America. Moreover the vehicle is a pioneer in the100 percent sustainable clean technologies, used in interior materials. They include seat fabrics with REPREVE^®–branded fiber made from recycled plastic bottles in the seat fabric. Another feature that comes as a standard are the 15-spoke 17-inch aluminum wheels, a 60/40 split rear bench seat, push-button start, AM/FM/CD/MP3 Sony^® Audio with nine speakers, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and HD Radio^™. There is a free, three-year subscription to SYNC Services as well. They will provide every driver with the access to information about traffic, news, sports, weather, horoscopes, stock quotes and movie listings, along with business searches and turn-by-turn directions.

Source: FORD

December 14, 2011

Category: Car Makes